For us log burners, when the nights get darker and the temperature gets colder – it means only one thing, right?
It’s time for a cosy room warmed through by a roaring, log-burned fire.
But one question we hear a lot is ‘Hardwood vs softwood – which is the better firewood?’. It can be quite the heated debate and you’ll be surprised to hear what we think.
Let’s fan those flames. Read on!
Is Hardwood or Softwood the Better Firewood?
Both have their benefits and it comes down to how you like your fire.
Do you like a longer, slower burn with less noise and low flames? Then hardwood might be the better fit.
Whereas softwood is ideal kindling to get your fire roaring and, depending on the timber type, cackles and licks – giving you a classic fire sound that just adds to the comfort.
So, hardwood vs softwood - which is the better firewood? Let’s get amongst it.
What are the Benefits of Burning Hardwood?
Here we go. Hardwood’s all about the long game. Why? Because the timber
comes from slow-growth trees like Oak and Ash, where the woods are denser.
Slow burns. Longer heat. And a good log will give you hours of warmth without the
need to refuel your log burner or wood stove.
Plus, there tends to be less resin in their make-up. Meaning less chance of a tar build-
up in your flue.
Making you feel all warm inside? We definitely are!
What are the Benefits of Burning Softwood?
Softwood as a firewood gets a lot of flak, and unfairly so in our opinion. Why is that? Let’s answer some of those worries.
Softwood doesn’t burn as long? That’s generally true. But you need to consider the type of burning and sound and ambient feel you want from your fire.
As a firewood, softwood burns quicker and is used as kindling to help set hardwoods alight.
You’ll usually get 40 minutes from a good softwood like Fir or Cedar. But if you want a quick ignition, vibrant flame, cackling sound, and also like restoking and refuelling your log burner, softwood is the timber for you.
Plus, softwood as firewood is usually cheaper and the trees grow quicker, too. Compare that to the slower-growing hardwood, and you’ve got a more sustainable firewood.
Speaking of sustainable, our firewood is responsibly sourced and delivered locally, all over Leicestershire.
Is it OK to Burn Softwood in a Wood Burner?
Sure is. The worry we hear a lot is creosote build-up in your chimney will be far
worse and might even be dangerous!
Burning any type of firewood – hard or soft – will lead to soot and creosote accumulation. This can increase the risk of chimney fires and possible health problems. And we certainly don’t want those.
That’s why we recommend a good ol’ yearly clean of your chimney - whichever firewood you prefer.
What Burns Hotter - Hardwood or Softwood?
Hardwoods. Their density provides a longer burn and emits more heat. But without
softwood, which ignites quicker, hardwoods can be difficult to get going.
Which is why we sell our mixed bags of firewood because we know the benefits of combining both types of wood.
Which Wood is Best for Burning?
There is no ‘better’ – just your preference. Here’s a summary of the traits of hardwood and softwood as firewood.
Hardwood vs Softwood - Which is the Better Firewood?
Hardwood as Firewood Traits | Softwood as Firewood Traits |
Less creosote or soot build-up | Great for shorter fires |
Emits more heat | Quicker ignition |
Longer to grow | Usually cheaper |
Usually dearer | Cackling sound |
Burns longer | Vibrant flames |
Less resin | Sustainable |
Ready to Burn?
We know the pull of a quality wood-burnt fire – and we know just the right hardwood and softwoods to get your flame as you like it.
To get your ideal fireside feeling, check out our firewood by pressing the button below.